Organisational brochure
Fortify Health, 2021
Abstract
Fortification of staple foods, such as wheat flour, with essential micronutrients has proven effective in reducing micronutrient deficiencies, including iron deficiency anemia and neural tube defects. This report examines the implementation of wheat flour fortification in India by the non-profit organization Fortify Health. The report details two key approaches: (1) Supporting millers to cost-neutrally fortify their atta in the open market and (2) Supporting government to mainstream wheat flour fortification in safety net programs and the open market. These approaches include specific tactics to address the challenges faced by millers, such as cost-neutral fortification and building consumer awareness. Additionally, the report outlines the benefits of fortification, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and efficiency in reaching large portions of the population. Fortify Health focuses its work in Maharashtra and West Bengal, based on the states’ large population size, high proportion of centrally produced atta, and high prevalence of anemia. The report also addresses potential risks posed by COVID-19 to ongoing fortification efforts, emphasizing the need for sustained interventions to prevent a secondary health crisis. – AI-generated abstract
